Good point on differences in period and modern powder, though going back to the 1773 letter from gunsmith Christian Oerter, the following part is important.
"She [the rifle] costs 8 pounds all together and with the powder @ 3 shillings per pound makes twelve shillings, for a total of L8.12.-.
Because it is very good powder I have added two pounds more than you requested. I hope it will suit you well. "
http://www.flintriflesmith.com/WritingandResearch/WebArticles/1773 Letter from Gunmaker.htm
So here we have a documented example of different quality of black powder, even back then. Though the gunsmith doesn't mention it, I bet that was considered "Fine Grade" Rifle Powder.
Also, this was over a year before the British landed at Boston to begin the AWI and different grades/quality of black powder were still available.
We also know the quality of powder available to Americans during the AWI varied a great deal, depending on where it was made and probably the formula and granulation available. Powder that came directly from France or the Dutch were most likely the best powders, though perhaps not always in the right granulation.
Sure, they could have ground the powder finer in mortar and pestle, but most of them probably did not have powder screens to get a uniform granulation.
Of course after the AWI, they once again had access to both fine European powder and some American Powder makers really began to make good powder. DuPont began making some really good powder in 1802 here.
I have often wondered if period Riflemen may have or did change their powder loads to get the best accuracy, when forced to use a different powder than they were used to?
Gus
Have NO CLUE what load they like. I'll be using Dutches system to choose the most accurate of the calibers and then selling off and getting at least one more NICE flint and/or smoothie. Probably and instead of or. I NEED a smaller caliber flint and also a trade gun of sorts. :hmm: I recall this thinking all along my "journey"
